Today, we’d like to introduce you to Justin Fry.
Hi Justin, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today.
My journey with chocolate began humbly, inspired by watching Chef Jacques Torres on TV.
Through his stunning showpieces, I discovered the artistry of working with chocolate. After studying music for 26 years, I decided to pursue my newfound passion. I attended Johnson and Wales University in Denver, CO, and after an internship, I was fortunate enough to be hired at The Willard Hotel, where I ran dinner service at Café du Parc.
I then moved to South Florida to work under a world-renowned pastry chef, seeking to further my education and skillset in chocolate. I am grateful to have had the opportunity to learn from incredibly talented chefs in the industry, both those I worked with and those I admired from afar.
After over six years in South Florida, I moved to Charlotte, NC, with my wife, where we decided to make our home. I had the privilege of serving as the first Executive Pastry Chef at a local private club for 3 years, where I also had the chance to mentor other pastry chefs in competitions.
Following my time in the private club scene, I made the bold decision to open my own chocolate business in Charlotte, NC. My goal is to offer unique chocolates and develop my own personal style in the industry. I am grateful for the opportunities I have had and excited for the future as I continue to grow and evolve in my craft.
Can you talk to us about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned? Looking back, would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
Experiencing a sudden job loss was a humbling experience for me, as I had never encountered such a situation before in my career. Initially, it felt like the end of the world, but it ultimately became a turning point that led me to embark on the path of working for myself. The challenges of opening our own business have been significant, but I view them as valuable learning opportunities.
I am grateful for the friends I have made along the way, who have offered their advice and mentorship to help our business thrive. Engaging in the competition scene has been instrumental in broadening my network within the industry, allowing me to connect with other chefs who share my passion and values, leading to lasting friendships.
While I cherish the experiences and growth opportunities that came with working in South Florida, I do find myself missing the regular interactions and learning opportunities from other chefs in that vibrant pastry community.
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I would consider my specialty to be working with chocolate, a passion that traces back to my upbringing.
Growing up, my father would gift me chocolates from a small business in his hometown of Butler, PA, called Peter’s Chocolate (not to be confused with the larger corporate company). While I certainly appreciate crafting bonbons, my true love lies in creating novelty confections such as barks, bars, and chocolate-panned items.
With JF Chocolat, my intention was to offer a diverse range of chocolate treats beyond just bonbons. I strive to develop fun and simple flavored items that evoke a sense of nostalgia, reminding people of the joy chocolate brought them in their childhood. Each recipe I meticulously work on at JF Chocolat is a labor of love. I dedicate 3 to 4 weeks to perfecting the flavors and textures, ensuring that every bite is a delightful experience for our customers.
Networking and finding a mentor can positively impact one’s life and career. Any advice?
For those seeking guidance on finding mentors and building a network, I would suggest a simple approach: introduce yourself to everyone you meet. Don’t hesitate to walk up to someone and initiate a conversation by saying, “Hello, my name is…” It’s important to remember that not everyone may be receptive to engaging with you, and that’s perfectly okay – it’s not personal.
By proactively creating connections with others, you open yourself up to valuable relationships that can potentially lead to finding a mentor who truly inspires and educates you. It’s through these interactions and relationships that you can cultivate personal and professional growth over time.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.jfchocolat.com
- Instagram: @jf_chocolat
